Sun West School Division to pilot alternative school calendar

Sun West School Division will launch a two-year pilot in the 2026–27 and 2027–28 school years to explore an alternative school calendar aimed at better supporting students, families and staff.

The optional pilot will be decided at the local level. Participating schools would operate with school days approximately 25 minutes longer, allowing for fewer instructional days while meeting or exceeding provincial instructional time requirements. Curriculum, learning expectations and assessment practices would remain unchanged.

The division will evaluate whether the alternative calendar can reduce student absenteeism, increase flexibility for families and staff, support recruitment and retention, maintain high-quality learning and provide enhanced professional development opportunities.

To participate, a school’s principal and School Community Council must jointly approve the option. Schools that share busing or other operations may only participate if all affected schools agree. Participation also requires at least 70 per cent support from parents or guardians through a school-level vote.

Between March 1 and April 15, 2026, schools may express interest, submit parent survey results and receive notification of transitions pending approval from the board and the Ministry of Education.

“This pilot gives interested schools an opportunity to explore a different calendar model while continuing to meet all provincial requirements,” said Darryl Seguin, Sun West director of education. “Participation is optional, and feedback from families, staff and students will help determine whether this approach is the right fit for their communities.”

More information is available from the principal of each Sun West school.